Lee J. Gruenewald

Lee J. Gruenewald

Jan. 19, 1939 - May 2, 2022

SHOREWOOD - Lee J. Gruenewald devoted his life to helping others. Born in rural Mequon, he attended a one-room schoolhouse at Sunnyside Elementary, then Shorewood High School, UW-Milwaukee, the University of Oregon, finally earning his PhD at UW-Madison in 1972. As a youth he overcame a stuttering disorder while also thriving as a talented musician on the piano and organ on which he performed as a church organist for fifty years. He played every Sunday, at weekly rehearsals, and for hundreds of weddings and funerals. He became a career educator focusing on children with disabilities and their families, first as a professor at UW, then as Director of Special Education and Assistant Superintendent with the Madison schools. He was recognized nationally as an innovative leader in special education and whole school inclusion. Retired in 1997, he had a long standing reputation for kindness and fairness among his many colleagues.

Lee married his wife, Kathleen Teicher of Milwaukee, in 1960 and became a part of her large extended family as well as his own. He is survived by their daughter, Jennifer Gruenewald; and son, David Greenwood and partner, Jill Greenwood; and grandchildren: Lily Gruenewald, Eli Greenwood, Kate Greenwood, and Ivy Greenwood.

Friendly and outgoing, Lee knew people wherever he went. He loved to travel and experience new places. In Europe, he visited many cathedrals, always looking at the pipe organs and sometimes having the opportunity to play. In New Mexico, Washington state, and Thunder Bay, Ontario, he savored new landscapes and being at home in his children's homes. He treasured his time in China to meet his granddaughter and help bring her home.

In addition to spending time with his family in retirement, Lee continued learning and serving his community. Because of his own cancer and experiences with loss he volunteered with Hospice as a bereavement counselor and group facilitator. He courageously attended to others in their grieving.

A memorial service will be held on May 12, at 2:00 p.m. at Plymouth Church, 2717 E. Hampshire St., Milwaukee, WI. Refreshments will follow the service at the church. Memorial gifts may be directed to Frieden's Community Ministry in Milwaukee.